Unclogging Drains: DIY Fixes and When to Call a Plumber
How to Unclog Your Bathroom Drain & Keep It Flowing Smoothly
A clogged drain can quickly turn into a messy problem, causing slow drainage, bad odours, and standing water in your sink or shower. Luckily, many blockages can be cleared with simple DIY fixes—but in some cases, a plumber may be needed.
Here’s how to clear a clogged drain yourself and when it’s time to call in a professional.
1. Signs Your Drain is Clogged
🚨 Common warning signs include:
✔ Slow drainage – Water takes longer than usual to go down.
✔ Gurgling noises – Air trapped in pipes creates bubbling sounds.
✔ Bad odours – A musty or rotten smell from trapped debris.
✔ Standing water – Water pooling in your sink or shower.
💡 Tip: Catching a clog early can prevent a full blockage and costly repairs.
2. DIY Fixes for Unclogging a Drain
🔹 Method 1: Boiling Water (For Minor Clogs)
✔ Boil a kettle of hot water.
✔ Pour it slowly down the drain in two to three stages, allowing time between each pour.
🚫 Do not use boiling water on PVC pipes or ceramic sinks, as extreme heat can cause damage.
💡 Best for: Clearing soap scum and grease buildup.
🔹 Method 2: Baking Soda & Vinegar (Natural Solution)
✔ Pour ½ cup of baking soda down the drain.
✔ Follow with 1 cup of white vinegar.
✔ Let it fizz for 15–30 minutes.
✔ Rinse with hot water to flush out loosened debris.
💡 Best for: Dissolving minor hair, soap, and grease clogs.
🔹 Method 3: Plunger (For Stubborn Clogs)
✔ Fill the sink or shower with a few centimetres of water to create suction.
✔ Place the plunger over the drain and push down firmly, then pull up.
✔ Repeat 10–15 times until the blockage loosens.
✔ Run hot water to flush out debris.
💡 Best for: Clearing hair clogs in bathroom sinks and shower drains.
🔹 Method 4: Drain Snake or Wire Hanger (For Hair Clogs)
✔ Unbend a wire coat hanger or use a drain snake.
✔ Insert it into the drain and hook out hair or debris.
✔ Pull out gunk and rinse with hot water.
💡 Best for: Removing visible hair clogs deep in the drain.
3. When to Call a Plumber
If DIY methods don’t work, the clog may be too deep or severe for at-home fixes.
📞 Call a plumber if you notice:
✔ Water backing up into other drains – A sign of a blockage in the main line.
✔ Multiple slow drains in your home – Indicates a bigger plumbing issue.
✔ Bad smells persist – May indicate a blocked vent or sewer problem.
✔ Recurring clogs – If drains clog again after clearing, there could be an underlying issue.
💡 Tip: Regular drain maintenance prevents costly plumbing emergencies.
4. Preventing Future Clogs
🚿 Simple habits to keep your drains clear:
✔ Use a drain cover to catch hair and debris.
✔ Avoid pouring oils, grease, or food waste down the sink.
✔ Run hot water weekly to flush out soap buildup.
✔ Clean drains monthly with baking soda & vinegar.
💡 Tip: Regular cleaning keeps your plumbing in top shape and prevents major blockages.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Drains Flowing Smoothly
Most minor drain clogs can be fixed with simple DIY methods, but if you notice recurring blockages or severe backups, it’s time to call a plumber.
At Custom Bathroom Creations, we recommend preventative maintenance to avoid costly plumbing issues and keep your bathroom running efficiently!
Need professional advice? Contact us today!